pGSK-3ß is up regulated in hypertrophy brought on by hypertension. Thus, we hypothesize that pGSK-3ß is also up regulated in HCM, and that unphosphorylated GSK-3ß is decreased.

Methodology

Heart tissue was homogenized and total protein content was determined by Lowry protein assay. Equal concentrations of total protein were inserted into a gel and separated electrophoresis. Gel membranes were incubated in primary antibody and then goat anti-rabbit secondary antibody. Membranes were scanned using Odyssey.

Outcomes

pGSK-3ß protein expression is decreased in male HCM hearts compared to their NF controls. However, the reduction is gender-specific and does not reach statistical significance in the female population. Unphosphorylated GSK-3ß protein is not changed in HCM, and there are no differences in its expression based on gender.